Advanced And Lightweight Composite Outlet Guide Vanes - CACTUS

Purpose and goal:

The CACTUS project aims to develop, manufacture, and test an advanced composite Outlet Guide Vane for next-generation aero-engines by GKN. This vane is located in the front part of the engine’s bypass. Expected results and effects:

Using these lightweight composite materials can significantly reduce the weight of aircraft and engines, leading to lower CO2 and greenhouse gas emissions. This aligns with Flightpath 2050 Europe’s Vision for Aviation and other climate goals for 2050. Approach and implementation:

The project is divided in several activities from coupon testing to final demonstrator part over 18 months. The preliminary study of material compaction, permeability as well as composite/metal assembly and co-bonding study will allow to better understand the key parameters to manufacture full size advances guide vanes.